Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite dishes: **Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus**! This recipe brings together succulent shrimp and fresh asparagus in a buttery, citrusy sauce that just sings with flavor. I remember the first time I made this for my best friend on a cozy Friday night. We poured ourselves a glass of white wine, and as we dug in, we couldn’t stop raving about it. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but is so easy to whip up, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long week.
What I particularly adore about this dish is how bright and refreshing it is thanks to the lemon. It’s like a burst of sunshine on your plate! Plus, shrimp cooks so quickly that dinner can be on the table in about 20 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to relax. So, let’s dive into what you need to create this delightful masterpiece!
What’s in Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus?
Shrimp: Naturally, shrimp is the star of the show! I prefer using large, fresh shrimp, preferably peeled and deveined. If you only have frozen shrimp, just ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking.
Asparagus: Tender and crisp asparagus adds a wonderfully fresh crunch to the dish. When I’m at the market, I always look for bright green, firm stalks with closed tips.
Garlic: Garlic is what brings this dish to life! It adds a savory depth that balances the brightness of the lemon.
Butter: Ah, butter! It creates a rich base for the sauce and compliments the flavors beautifully. I usually opt for unsalted, but you can use salted if that’s what you have on hand—just adjust the salt later.
Lemon juice and zest: This is where the magic happens! Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, while the zest adds an aromatic punch.
Parsley: Fresh parsley is my go-to herb for garnishing, adding a pop of color and freshness.
Olive oil: I use a touch of olive oil to sauté the vegetables and add some healthy fats.
Is Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits.
Shrimp: High in protein, shrimp is a fantastic lean meat option. It’s also low in calories and packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12 and selenium.
Asparagus: This green vegetable is loaded with vitamins A, C, E, and K. Plus, it’s a great source of fiber, which is important for digestion.
Garlic: Known for its numerous health benefits, garlic can help to boost your immune system and has been linked to heart health.
While there’s nothing inherently unhealthy about this dish, be mindful of the butter and oil if you’re watching your calorie intake. I often adjust the amount based on my cravings!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 20-25 shrimp)
– 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves 2-4, depending on portion sizes.*
How to Make Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus?
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until they turn bright green and are tender but still crisp. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it. You’ll start to smell that wonderful aroma!
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with some salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
4. Return the asparagus to the pan, and pour in the lemon juice and zest. Give it a gentle toss to coat everything in that luscious sauce.
5. Cook for an additional minute until heated through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Delicious Variations and Tips
– You can add some red chili flakes for a bit of heat if you enjoy spicy dishes!
– Feel free to substitute the asparagus with other veggies like broccoli or snap peas based on your preference.
– This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.
I can’t express enough how much joy this recipe brings me! I encourage you to try making **Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus** for yourself. It’s sure to be a hit—whether for a cozy dinner at home or a small gathering with friends. I would love to hear how it turns out for you, so if you give it a go, do come back and share your experience! Happy cooking!